Planning a fishing or boating trip? Long offshore voyage or charter to a distant port or big prize tournament? Concerned that your boat’s fuel capacity will hamper your plans or put you in harms way? Worry no more.

ATL Inc., the world leader in flexible composite technology, is proud to offer a full line of collapsible, on-deck fuel bladder tanks and accessories. ATL's economical "Petro-Flex"® and all-new “FueLocker”™ range-extension tanks are ideal solutions for longer voyages requiring high fuel consumption. They can also be used to "stock up" on lower cost or more reliable, higher quality fuel when at port. Both fuel bladders are made from ATL’s durable military-spec. rubberized fabric, renowned for its superior tensile strength and puncture resistance.

Whether it be the proven "Petro-Flex" or the high-filling, compact design of the "FueLocker", you can be assured that wherever you are going, you will get there and back safely with ATL.

Pillow StyleMarine
Fuel Bladder Tanks

ATL's Petro-Flex Range Extension Marine
Bladder Tanks are ideal for extended-range
fishing, yachting (motor yachts MY and sailing yachts SY), ferrying and cruising trips. They can be placed on deck or in a vented locker, live well, fish hold or fish box, and are easily filled with gas or diesel fuel from any standard fuel pump nozzle.

When appropriately permitted, Petro-Flex Tanks may be used to ferry aircraft, feed fuel to power generators, transport petroleum products and provide emergency flotation.

ATL's NEW FueLocker Range
Extension Marine Bladder Tanks
take up less than 1/2 of the deck
space of a Petro-flex pillow bladder
of the same capacity. The newly designed bladder
accepts gasoline, diesel, bio-diesel, E-10 bio ethanol and jet-fuel.

Easy to Use; simply unfold and fill with any standard refueling nozzle

Safe, Tough and Durable; made with military-spec. rubberized fabric, renowned for its superior tensile strength and puncture resistance

Easy Storage; completely collapsible, able to be folded and stowed

ATL Underliner Included; helps protect bladder from abrasive surfaces

Custom Sizes; fuel bladders come in a variety of standard sizes but can also be made to customer dimensions

Safety Features; within the fill cap is a vent valve that automatically relieves pressure in case of excessive heat or overfill - at the fill pipe base is a “flapper valve” to prevent possible fuel backflow when the cap is removed

CAUTION: ATL’s Tie-Down Kits KS-198 and KS-199 are designed to stabilize your “Petro-Flex” or “FueLocker” on deck during routine excursions and outings. They are very sturdy restraints, but are NOT designed for rough seas and nasty weather. Under storm and wake conditions, cargo nets belts and/or additional cross strapping to durable cleats is very important. Otherwise, if possible, drain the bladder into your main tanks before engaging weather extremes or serious swells.

ATL's coated fabric Sun-Shield slips over your Petro-Flex® or FueLocker™ like a pillow case. It helps protect against abrasion, heat and UV rays.

Part #

Fits Petro-Flex Bladder:

Price (US Dollar)

200705

25 gal. (100 lit.)

$87.

200710

50 gal. (200 lit.)

$91.

200713

75 gal. (300 lit.)

$95.

200715

100 gal. (400 lit.)

$99.

200720

150 gal. (600 lit.)

$128.

200725

200 gal. (800 lit.)

$159.

200730

300 gal. (1200 lit.)

$226.

200740

500 gal. (2000 lit.)

$319.

Part #

Fits FueLocker Bladder:

Price (US Dollar)

200805

50 gal. (200 lit.)

$91.

200810

100 gal. (400 lit.)

$99.

200815

150 gal. (600 lit.)

$128.

200820

200 gal. (800 lit.)

$159.

200825

250 gal. (1000 lit.)

$188.

200830

300 gal. (1200 lit.)

$226.

200850

500 gal. (2000 lit.)

$319.

Replacement Underliners

ATL's Underliner is made from a fabric reinforced material that helps protect your fuel bladder from abrasive surfaces. *(1) ATL UNDERLINER IS INCLUDED FREE OF CHARGE WITH YOUR ORDER OF (1) RANGE EXTENSION BLADDER - REPLACEMENT OR ADDITIONAL UNDERLINERS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE. PLEASE SEE PRICES BELOW:

Part #

Fits Petro-Flex Bladder:

Price (US Dollar)

204025

25 gal. (100 lit.)

$85.

204050

50 gal. (200 lit.)

$92.

204075

75 gal. (300 lit.)

$106.

204100

100 gal. (400 lit.)

$117.

204150

150 gal. (600 lit.)

$143.

204200

200 gal. (800 lit.)

$154.

204300

300 gal. (1200 lit.)

$265.

204500

500 gal. (2000 lit.)

$318.

Part #

Fits FueLocker Bladder:

Price (US Dollar)

205050

50 gal. (200 lit.)

$89.

205100

100 gal. (400 lit.)

$103.

205150

150 gal. (600 lit.)

$109.

205200

200 gal. (800 lit.)

$121.

205250

250 gal. (1000 lit.)

$128.

205300

300 gal. (1200 lit.)

$133.

205500

500 gal. (2000 lit.)

$161.

Brass Ball-Valve Outlets

Brass Ball Valve Assemblies with safety lock in both 1/2" (standard with bladder purchase) and 1" (optional upgrade) are available individually as replacement units

If overhead clearance is a concern, a 5 1/2" tall stand pipe can be installed on your fuel bladder rather than the standard 11" stand pipe. Available as upgrade only at no additional charge, not sold separately. Add -SF to bladder part number when ordering.

Quite. They are constructed of rubberized ballistic nylon as used in military Flex-Tanks of 20,000 and 50,000 gallon capacity. Nevertheless, all bladders should be handled with normal care and respect, especially when filled with flammable fuels.

No, the bladder outlet is near the top and “floats” downward as fuel is drained and the bladder collapses.

Q

Can I connect the Petro-Flex/FueLocker directly to my engine?

A

Petro-Flex and FueLocker bladders are intended as auxiliary tanks rather than as main tanks. However, once secured, Petro-Flex/FueLocker bladders have been used to directly supply those gasoline engines which do NOT require a fuel return line. Diesel engines commonly DO require a return line and therefore should NOT be fed directly from a Petro-Flex/FueLocker. ATL can provide special fuel bladders for direct diesel connection. Click on “Contact” above or call the number below.

Q

Can I get every drop out of the bladder?

A

Nearly. For full purging, the Petro-Flex may be rolled up from its far corner toward the outlet fitting.

Q

How is fuel transferred to the main tank?

A

Attach a ½” inside diameter fuel hose (12mm) (or optional 1" ID Hose) to the barbed outlet fitting, and run this hose as far down the main tank inlet pipe as possible. Open the ball valve and press firmly on the bladder to initiate gravity or siphon flow. Be careful not to overfill the main tank. For siphon transfer of deck mounted bladders to below deck main tanks, the siphon hose should be able to be inserted so that the end is a minimum of 6 - 12" below the elevation of the deck. If siphon is not practical, a suitable fuel pump may be required.

ATL’s Range Extenders are best transported either full or empty. Empty bladders should be collapsed and stored in a vented locker. Full bladders should be lashed down with a cargo net or with one of ATL’s Tie-Down Kit harnesses (above).

Q

When full, my Petro-Flex/FueLocker seems very stable on deck, why do I need to tie it down?

A

Under most conditions, a full bladder tank will stay put, but in high seas (or turbulent air) bladders can become unstable and shift. With full weights of 150 lbs. to 3000 lbs., it is dangerous to use them if not fully restrained.

Q

About how many Petro-Flex tanks has ATL produced?

A

Since inception of the product, ATL has delivered approximately 50,000 of these fuel bladders worldwide.

Q

Can I mount my Petro-Flex/FueLocker below deck?

A

Coast Guard regulations do not permit in-hull locations. ATL recommends securely lashing the full bladder above deck for better gravity fuel transfer, safer venting and ease of clean-up should any fuel be spilled during filling.

Q

Do Petro-Flex/FueLocker Range Extenders suffer from weather exposure?

A

Yes, to some extent. Despite UV additives and hydrolysis stabilizers, rubber and fabric products can take a beating in extremes of sun, cold, dampness and abrasion. ATL Sun-Shields and Underliners are excellent protectors. When not in use, ATL recommends storing the drained bladder in a dry and vented locker.

Q

Does ATL offer an electric fuel pump for transferring gasoline or diesel?

A

No, ATL recommends gravity or siphon flow, but these two companies can provide 12V and 24V diesel pumps with explosion-proof motors:

Can I fill the bladder with fuel and carry it to my boat (plane, truck)?

A

Sorry, no. Full bladders are very hard to grasp and they weigh from 150 to 3000 lbs. ATL strongly suggests filling in situ.

Q

Will my Petro-Flex/FueLocker float if it falls overboard?

A

Yes, definitely! Fuel is 2/3 the density of water so it will always produce buoyancy. Also, in emergencies, an empty Petro-Flex/FueLocker can be lightly filled with air to provide significant buoyancy for personnel and the entire craft.

Q

Why are there so many valves on the Petro-Flex/FueLocker?

A

Good question! Within the fill cap is a vent valve that automatically relieves pressure in case of excessive heat or overfill. At the fill pipe base is a “flapper valve” to prevent possible fuel backflow when the cap is removed. And finally, at the outlet flange is a precision½" ¼-turn ball valve for quick fuel-on fuel-off control.

ATL REBs Used In Mobile Applications Must Be Secured Or Restrained By One Of The Following Methods:

a) Within a ventilated rigid container, compartment, locker or nacelle

b) Under a fastened cargo net or snug nylon web harness

c) Within (4) ratchet tie-down straps; one in each direction

d) Or another active restraint means able to absorb 3 g. loadings along all axis

CAUTION: ATL’s Tie-Down Kits KS-198 and KS-199 are designed to stabilize your “Petro-Flex” or “FueLocker” on deck during routine excursions and outings. They are very sturdy restraints, but are NOT designed for rough seas and nasty weather. Under storm and wake conditions, cargo nets belts and/ or additional cross strapping to durable cleats is very important. Otherwise, if possible, drain the bladder into your main tanks before engaging weather extremes or serious swells.

Diagram Refers to BOTH Petro-Flex® and FueLocker™

ATL Tie-Down Collar with ratchet straps at 4 equally spaced points.

CAUTION: Bladders secured with cargo nets and harness webs: If a partial transfer of fuel is made, retighten the straps or cargo net to restrain the bladder.

10) To protect the ATL REB’s bottom surface, always position the bladder on a clean, smooth surface or use an ATL “Underliner” or “Ground Cloth” for chafe avoidance.

11) When storing an ATL REB, drain all fuel; collapse the bladder flat to expel vapors; wrap padding around all fittings; fold up the bladder and wrap it in a polyethylene bag.

12) For maximum bladder life, minimize the tank’s exposure to intense sunlight, extreme heat and cold, pressurization, fungus, abrasion and high humidity. Avoid repeated folding along the same crease lines, as this practice may cause unnecessary wear.

13) Since fuel vapors are frequently flammable, ATL REBs are to be used only in open, well-ventilated spaces. Immediately clean up any fuel spills, and preferably discharge fuel directly to the vehicles’ main tanks. Use top quality hoses, pumps, valves and fittings when installing an ATL REB auxiliary fuel tank. Keep the ATL REB exterior clean and dry.

14) The fill and outlet fittings (bosses) on ATL REBs are of composite plastic construction so as to be corrosion resistant, non-sparking and impact resistant. However, these threaded bosses are not intended to be connected to metallic pipe. Do not alter the fitting arrangements on ATL REBs, and if a replacement part in needed, use only threaded nylon and not metal.

V.) ATL “REB” Operation

a) Fuel Filling

An ATL REB will accommodate standard gas station and marina nozzles. Slowly remove the cam-lock type fill cap to relieve pressure and then fill the bladder slowly with fuel. When the bladder is taut and the fuel is 1 inch (2- 3cm) high in the fill neck, stop filling and secure the cap with both levers carefully latched and pinned. See Figure #2

Diagram Refers to BOTH Petro-Flex® and FueLocker™

It is a good idea to mark the bladder with its intended fuel type so as not to mix diesel, leaded gas, unleaded gas or other fuels.

b) Fuel Storage

When fuel is stored in an ATL REB tank, be certain the fill cap is affixed tightly; the outlet valve is closed; andthe bladder is well secured. No venting is required as the bladder can “grow” slightly to accommodate normal vapors and fuel expansion. If internal pressure becomes extreme, a safety relief valve in the fill cap is designed to exhaust this over-pressure.

It is always best to keep the bladder in a well ventilated area away from intense sunlight or other heat sources. However, should the fill cap be removed from a bladder with internal vapor pressure, an automatic flapper valve will help prevent rapid back flow of fuel up the fill neck. A small relief passage will generally permit the slow bleed-off of pressure, again automatically.

Do not store any fuel for longer than 90 days, as petroleum products can polymerize and become “sour”. Deteriorated fuels may be harmful to the ATL REB as well as to fuel systems and engines.

Do not mix any additives with the fuel in an ATL REB tank. Some fuel additives may be harmful to the bladder and its fittings or to fuel transfer hose.

All rubberized materials experience a small amount of vapor transmission or “diffusion” when they separate two fluids or gasses; in this case a hydrocarbon fuel and air. This “permeation” effect is normally unnoticed, but in cases of over pressurization, abuse or over-filling there may be a fuel odor detectable. Again, ATL REB tanks should be located in a well-ventilated area and inspected regularly.

Do not use a direct connection hook-up for a diesel engine or for any other engine employing a fuel return line back to the tank. ATL REBs are not equipped to accommodate a return line unless specially fitted at the Aero Tec Laboratories (ATL) factory.

c) Fuel Discharge by Gravity

When draining fuel to a lower main tank from an ATL REB, simple “down-hill” gravity flow is very convenient.

Insert a 1/2 inch inside diameter (I.D.) hose into the vehicle’s fuel fill port and slowly open the ATL REB discharge valve. If needed, step lightly on the bladder to initiate fuel flow.

Watch the vehicle’s fuel level gauge and, when near full, close the discharge valve, remove the hose slowly and re-cap the vehicle’s main fuel tank. See Figure #3

Diagram Refers to BOTH Petro-Flex® and FueLocker™

d) Fuel Discharge by Siphon

When transferring to a lower tank, but through a higher fill port, the siphon technique is helpful.

Run a siphon hose (1/2 inch I.D.) into the vehicle’s fuel port extending to a level below the bottom of the bladder at least 6 inches as shown. Open the ATL REB discharge (outlet) valve and step on the bladder to initiate flow. Fuel will siphon to the main tank. To remove all residual bladder fuel, roll up the nearly empty bladder toward its discharge fitting, squeezing fuel out. Watch the vehicle’s level gauge, and when the main tank is near full, close the bladder discharge valve. Gradually extract the siphon hose and close the vehicle’s fuel fill port. See Figure #4

Diagram Refers to BOTH Petro-Flex® and FueLocker™

e) Fuel Discharge by Pump

When gravity or siphon flow is not practical, an electric or manual fuel pump may be employed to lift and discharge fuel to a main tank “above” the bladder. Ascertain that the pump is an explosion proof variety designed for the type of fuel and flow rate required. Watch the vehicle’s fuel level gauge, and when the main tank is near full, turn off the pump and close the ATL REB discharge valve. See Figure #5

Diagram Refers to BOTH Petro-Flex® and FueLocker™

PRODUCT SAFETY BULLETIN #DS-370

1.) Compatibility: Be certain your ATL product is designed to handle the temperature and fluid in question. When in doubt, contact ATL to discuss specific model numbers and material types. Never subject any item to Ketones, Chlorinated Solvents, Concentrated Acids, Alkalies, Pure Aromatics or temperatures over 60°F unless specifically designed for that service and approved by ATL.

2.) Personnel Protection: Be prepared for the unexpected. All personnel handling fuels and hazardous chemicals must wear full protective clothing and equipment of an impervious, non-static and flame-resistant type. Specific information should be sought from your fuel/chemical vendors, industry associations and producers of personnel protection systems.

3.) Multiple Uses: Some ATL tanks can be sufficiently cleaned to store or transport several different, but similar, liquids without contamination. However, never take this factor for granted. Field and laboratory testing are always required before suitability can be assured. ATL can frequently provide material samples and scale models to assist in your analysis. Never switch a fuel or chemical container to a comestibles use.

4.) Pressure: Most ATL products are designed for use at ambient pressure. Unless specifically designated, Do Not subject any container, valve or connection to pressure differential. Do Not restrict venting; Do Not overfill o exceed maximum height; Do Not exceed normal flow rates during filling or discharging; and Do Not pressurize any inflatable unless fully restrained and enclosed. Always allow a 10% volume factor (ullage) to compensate for vapor expansion, thermal expansion and overfill. Those products designed for pressurization should be fully contained or restrained in an engineered rigid structure before filling.

6.) Accessories: Fittings, flanges, piping, hoses, valves, vents, meters, pumps etc. used in conjunction with ATL products must be designed, selected and maintained for leak-tightness, galvanic compatibility, chemical compatibility, thread and seal compatibility, as well as appropriate grounding, electrical bonding, vibration tolerance, tamper-resistance, flexibility, flow capacity and mounting methods. Get professional assistance to assure total system functionality and safety.

7.) Personnel Training: ATL products are of a technical nature and are frequently used in conjunction with hazardous materials. All operating and support personnel must be trained in the user’s specific application of these ATL items. A full familiarity with the important safety precautions and procedures is essential before any such devices are placed in service. Each user must establish his own training program geared to his particular industry and specific application.

8.) Environmental Considerations: ATL products are engineered so as not to endanger the water, air and land environments. Many ATL devices are, in fact, employed specifically for pollution abatement purposes. Nevertheless, wherever fuels and potentially hazardous substances are stored, ATL recommends the simultaneous use of its secondary containment products such as:

This equipment, in conjunction with reasonable care and maintenance, will significantly improve the retention
of physical properties and hence product longevity.

10.) Flex Fatigue: Like most materials, the polymers, laminates and flexible composites used in most ATL products can weaken from severe pinching, creasing, folding, and flex-cycling. Normal collapsing and distending produce no ill effects, but compaction, inversion and crushing will decrease physical properties. Some materials comprised of high performance filaments are especially susceptible to flex-fatigue and require diligent care to avoid abuse during packing, operating, storing and unfolding.

11.) Set Up and Installation: ATL provides User Manuals and/or installation instructions for most standard products. However, specialty items and custom made products require the user to formulate his own procedures or draw on established standards such as ASTM, ASME, SAE, ISO etc.

12.) Cleaning and Storing: All products should be periodically cleaned, especially if they are to be stored for extended periods. Follow the User Manual procedures or contact ATL for assistance.

13.) Leak Testing: Prior to use, all tank and container type products should be leak tested. This procedure can generally be done with 1/8 psi air pressure and a standard bubble-type leak detector solution. Follow the User Manual procedure or contact ATL for help. Always rinse and dry the surface after testing.

14.) Intended Purpose: Never use an ATL product for an application other than that intended unless specifically authorized. For example, don’t use a static storage tank for dynamic operations, don’t use an air inflatable to contain nitric acid or a berm liner as a field cover. Be methodical; order precisely what you need, and avoid “adaptations”.

15.) Abrasion: Plastics, rubber and fabrics can deteriorate from excessive abrasion or chafing. ATL’s compounds minimize this wearing effect, but all efforts should be made to avoid dragging, rubbing, cutting and scuffing of flexible materials. Poly slip-sheets, talc, light oil and “doubler” patches frequently help ward off abrasion, but the best protection is reasonable care in handling and use.

16.) Repairs: All repairs to ATL products should be performed at the factory. When this is not practicable, and where field repairs are authorized, a reasonably skilled technician can patch and seal most ATL flexible containers. Be certain to use only the appropriate ATL repair kit, and perform the repair in a clean, well-equipped facility, following the repair instructions precisely. Remember, not all damage is repairable. Do Not attempt to repair a tank, drum, air cell etc. that has been broadly weakened by chemical attack, ozone effect, UV exposure etc.

17.) When in Doubt: Do Not take chances. Please contact ATL for assistance. We can help either directly or by referral to a source of safety information for your particular problem. Please refer to page 7 for ways to contact Aero Tec Laboratories